While the “Wannacry” ransomware causes damage around the world, security experts are urging users to stay vigilant.

CGTN’s Mark Niu reports.

‘WannaCry’ attack reminds user to be vigilant against malware

While the “Wannacry” ransomware causes damage around the world, security experts are urging users to stay vigilant.

Security experts said that the “WannaCry” ransomware is easy to prevent but hard to stop.

Mandeep Khera has been in the cyber security industry for two decades and his company, Arxan, protects both mobile and internet of things devices – including connected cars and medical devices.

Although he said that keeping software and operating systems updated are important, it often comes down to individual users.

“Number one thing you need to do is make sure employees understand not to click on any links they don’t trust. They are always tricky because hackers are getting smart, so they won’t send you something from a weird email address that looks like a hack,” Khera said.

While this attack hit Windows XP, he said that it’s a huge mistake to think just because you work on a Mac OS or any another computer system, that you’re in the clear.

“If you do get attacked by ransomware like “WannaCry” – where you’re told to pay a Bitcoin amount to get back your files – options are limited. All you can do is try to upgrade as fast you can, but you might have to pay the ransom just to recover your files,” said Khera.

He also said that many hackers like these are out there wreaking havoc as a full time job, making about ten thousand dollars a week. Khera estimated that half of U.S. companies are currently vulnerable to such cyberattacks.

That’s why he’s even proposed that the government should provide tax relief to companies that properly invest in cyber security.

Shawn Tuma on the ‘WannaCry” ransomware attacks

To dive deeper into the cyberattack and its origins, CGTN’s Elaine Reyes talked with Shawn Tuma, a cyber-security expert and an attorney with Scheef & Stone, LLC.

Privacy Settings

This site uses functional cookies and external scripts to improve your experience. Which cookies and scripts are used and how they impact your visit is specified on the left. You may change your settings at any time. Your choices will not impact your visit.

NOTE: These settings will only apply to the browser and device you are currently using.